Susie An

4 weeks ago | wbez.org | Susie An

Since President Donald Trump took office in January, Chicago has been thrust into the immigration debate as “ground zero” for deportations, in part due to its Welcoming City ordinance. Chicago is no stranger to this spotlight. In fact, its stance on newcomers has repeatedly forecasted national sentiment, often led by the city’s mayor. During cultural shifts or an economic downturn in the city, it was always convenient to blame the latest group of arrivals.

4 weeks ago | ourcommunitynow.com | Susie An

Share Since President Donald Trump took office in January, Chicago has been thrust into the immigration debate as “ground zero” for deportations, in part due to its Welcoming City ordinance. Chicago is no stranger to this spotlight. In fact, its stance on newcomers has repeatedly forecasted national sentiment, often led by the city’s mayor. During cultural shifts or an economic downturn in the city, it was always convenient to blame the latest group of arrivals.

Jan 22, 2025 | wbez.org | Andrew Meriwether |Erin Allen |Alex Degman |Susie An

Editor’s note: This story originally published in Jan. 18, 2024. The accompanying podcast episode answers several traffic-related questions, including how city traffic lights are timed and why construction on I-90/I-94 happens the way it does. Chances are if you’ve heard a Chicago-area traffic report on the radio in the past twenty years, Mike Pries helped put it together. He works for Total Traffic and Weather Network, which manages a traffic database used by nearly every local news outlet.

Jan 15, 2025 | wbez.org | Alex Degman |Susie An |Erin Allen |Mary Hall

World’s largest ball of twine; the state’s biggest rocking chair; “mystery spots.” For many drivers, roadside attractions are a much-welcome stop on an otherwise long and monotonous road trip. But they are so much more for Violet Fox, who was born in Decatur and has an extra appreciation for Illinois’ lesser-known landmarks. “I love getting out and seeing all of these really fun, unique, beautiful, exciting, interesting, kitschy things that we have around the state,” Fox said.

Dec 11, 2024 | wbez.org | Andrew Meriwether |Erin Allen |Susie An |Jesse Dukes

Entering Miller’s Pub, it’s easy to see why it’s a holiday gathering spot. The restaurant is warmly lit with vintage stained glass fixtures, and dark woods combine with classic Christmas decor for a cozy ambiance. Among those who gather is special education teacher Jason Munchoff, who has met his friends here for an annual holiday celebration since 2007. Essential to their festivities is drinking a Tom and Jerry. “I’m really into traditions, especially around the holidays,” he said.